Ron Wright Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ron Wright Dam, located in Mecklenburg, North Carolina, is a private earth dam constructed in 1986 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 19 feet, the dam spans 308 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 19 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Fourmile Creek-Tr and covers a surface area of 2.5 acres, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Despite its non-regulated status by the state, Ron Wright Dam is classified as having significant hazard potential. The dam has not been inspected since March 2006, and its condition is currently listed as not rated. Emergency action plans and risk assessments for the dam are not readily available, raising concerns about the preparedness and management of potential hazards associated with the structure. However, the dam continues to serve as a popular destination for recreational pursuits in the area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Ron Wright Dam to be a fascinating case study in dam construction and management. The unique combination of its private ownership, recreational focus, and potential hazards present an intriguing story that highlights the importance of proper maintenance and oversight for these vital water infrastructures. As discussions around climate resilience and water resource management continue to evolve, Ron Wright Dam serves as a valuable example of the complexities and challenges associated with balancing human activities with environmental safety.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

308

River Or Stream

Fourmile Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

19

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.